Photo: An active and happy multigenerational family © Courtesy of News Canada
More Canadian families are embracing multigenerational living, with households increasing by 50 per cent over the past 20 years. This way of life offers countless benefits, from sharing childcare and household responsibilities to passing down traditions, stories, and skills between generations. And when it comes time to plan a holiday, the challenge becomes finding a destination that appeals to every age group. Fortunately, Canada is filled with options that bring the whole family together.
Canadian Destinations For All Ages
Prince Edward Island
This scenic island is home to Canada’s famous Anne of Green Gables heritage site. It also boasts whale and seal watching tours and beautiful red sand beaches. Charlottetown has a lively theatre scene and a can’t-miss waterfront with freshly caught seafood, cute shops and more.
Quebec City
The city has a wealth of history and European charm, from museums and cobblestone streets to the Citadel, a historic military fortress. Consider taking the gondola to view Montmorency Falls—an impressive attraction 30 meters taller than Niagara Falls.And don’t miss the chance to experience Quebec’s vibrant food scene and rich French-Canadian culture, from cozy cafés to world-class dining.
Banff and Jasper in Alberta
The Rocky Mountains are where you can take in some of Canada’s most scenic wilderness, whether on foot or via gondola, which is ideal for seniors or young children. The turquoise waters of Lake Louise or Moraine Lake are other must-see spots.
Okanagan Valley in British Columbia
With relatively mild temperatures year-round, adults can enjoy visiting some of Canada’s top-rated wineries, while kids may prefer beach time at Osoyoos, where there’s plenty of water sports available, and the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre, which showcases the culture of the Osoyoos Indian Band.
Tips to Travel Seamlessly
1. Know when to split up
Not all attractions will appeal to everyone, so consider breaking the family into smaller activity groups to cater to individual interests. For example, the kids can visit a waterpark or zoo with their parents, while grandparents can enjoy a museum or art gallery. Then, everyone can reconvene at dinner to share their adventures.
2. Find flexible accommodation
The more space, the better. Look for options with separate bedrooms or kitchenettes to give everyone space and make travel and feeding larger groups simpler. Some accommodations, like Choice Hotels, offer a variety of room and suite sizes in communities across Canada, which can help you find an option that works for your family.
3. Get the grandparents involved
Whether it’s help with watching the kids or researching attractions, having some extra hands, and eyes, can make visiting a new destination a much less stressful experience. Just make sure when choosing attractions to check the accessibility, so the whole family can enjoy.
4. Build in downtime
No one wants a trip that feels like work. Avoid an itinerary so full that there’s no time to stop and relax. Make sure to rest and rejuvenate between sightseeing excursions. You don’t want to feel like you need a vacation after your vacation.
With a few simple steps and thoughtful planning, you can create a trip that delights every generation, and leaves your family with cherished memories to share for years to come. More than just a getaway, it’s an opportunity to celebrate togetherness and enjoy the best of what Canada has to offer.
—NC
